Conducting the ceremony was Xavier Bettel, Mayor of the City of Luxembourg, who said it was an "honour" to unite the royal couple.

Mr Bettel went on to add that he hoped the pair enjoy "happiness and prosperity" in their marriage before addressing their national responsibility, calling them "symbols of hope for the future generations of Luxembourg."

The mayor then spoke directly to Stephanie saying that on behalf of all Luxembourgers they were sorry her mother Countess Alix, who tragically passed away in August, was unable to be with them on their special day.

He then told the newlyweds that they were at "the beginningof a wonderfuladventure" before they emerged from the town hall to cheers and flag-waving well-wishers.

Setting off on foot to the Grand Ducal Palace, the couple took over an hour to complete the 500-metre journey due to the volume of enthusiastic onlookers.

They took time to chat, sign autographs and have their photograph taken with their fans, many of them youngsters.

Although the actual ceremony wasn't broadcast live, their arrival and royal cortege was beamed onto giant screens around the city.

Earlier in the day the Hereditary Grand Duke and his blushing bride-to-be stepped out for a celebratory reception at the Grand Theatre.

Looking radiant in a smart burgundy coat and matching heels, Stephanie took her loved one's arm as they attended their final engagement as an unmarried couple.

Before the attention turns to Saturday's lavish ceremony at Our Lady of Luxembourg Cathedral, there will be a gala dinner at the palace, attended by a roll call of high profile royal guests.